If I had to pick one word to describe the G2 Pirate, it would be smooth. The cigar does begin with a slight kick of pepper, and this continues for the majority of the first third. It mellows out in the second third, as sweet notes and rich nuts appear. The final third is characterized by a lot of creaminess.

Overall, there is not much to complain about when it comes to the G2 Pirate. Is it the best that Graycliff has to offer? Of course not. Then again, such was not expected, as it is marketed as more of a value stick at an affordable price. Its construction was not the greatest, but the burn was satisfactory and free of any major annoyances. The flavor was very enjoyable from beginning to end. The transitions from spicy to smooth were nice, and the creaminess towards the end was the real highlight. In terms of price, the G2 Pirate is affordable. While a single can be found in the $6 range, you can find boxes of 20 for around $60. It also comes in packs of five. The G2 Pirate is a solid pick for beginners or someone looking for a milder cigar with some flavor. If you have been wanting to get your hands on a Graycliff, but were apprehensive because of price, the G2 is for you. A box is not a bad idea if you want something solid, yet affordable to hand out to your buddies. It's also a good smoke for pretty much any occasion or time of the day.

The Graycliff G2 pirate earns a rating of 3.25 out of four stars.

EP Carrillo Core Line Encantos

As its name would suggest, the Core Line from EP Carrillo is one that is produced in solid numbers. Fans of the old La Gloria Cubana cigars might want to take a look at the Core Line, as it is said to be quite similar. Of course, it doesn't hurt that the brand's owner, Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, is also the former owner of La Gloria Cubana.

The Encantos is the shortest vitola in the EP Carrillo Core line. It measures 4 7/8 x 50. There are five other vitolas in the line, including the 5 5/8 x 46 Regalias, 5 7/8 x 52 Club 52, 6 1/8 x 52 Predilectos, 6 1/4 x 60 Golosos, and 7 1/8 x 49 Churchill Especial. The cigar's filler is a blend of tobaccos from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. Its double binder is Nicaraguan, and it is topped off with an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper. Each Encantos has a triple cap, and the cigar is listed as being medium to full-bodied. The Core Line is produced in the Dominican Republic.